SOS: How to Get Lip Gloss out of Clothes

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  Alyssia Chang

   - Published June 23rd, 2023

Lip gloss is the perfect finishing touch to any makeup look, but getting it on your clothes? A no-no. It’s easy to get carried away with a good gloss and accidentally smudge some on your best top, the good news is you can get it out again. All you need is the proper technique and a few simple household items.

Today, we’re going to walk you through the simple steps of how to get lip gloss out of clothes. Plus, tips, tricks, and things to avoid when it comes to this iconic makeup product.

How to get Lip Gloss out of Clothes: 4 Simple Steps

Got some gloss on your top just as you’re about to jet out the door? We’ve all been there, stains happen. This notoriously tough makeup product isn’t the easiest to get out of your clothes (thanks to the oils and thickeners that keep it on our pout), so you’ll probably need an outfit change.

But before you walk out the door, quickly treat the gloss stain so it doesn’t become a major problem. The sooner you act, the better your chances of removing it entirely and saving your favorite outfit. You only need a spoon, some cold water, and a little laundry detergent.

1. Using a regular kitchen spoon, gently scrape off excess lip gloss from the fabric — no harsh rubbing. You may need to upgrade to a dull butter knife if the spoon isn’t doing the job. Just be careful not to cut the fabric.
2. Fill a bucket with cold water (add some ice cubes if you’re in a pinch). Soak the garment for 10 minutes, then assess the lip gloss stain. If it’s still there, add some laundry detergent and give it another 10 minutes.
3. After pre-soaking, you may need to treat the stain with a remover if it’s still not budging. The easiest way to make this is with equal parts vinegar and baking soda, making it into a paste. Once done, apply it to the stain and let it sit for another 10 minutes.
4. Assess the stain; if it’s almost or entirely gone, you can now wash it as usual. Check the label of the garment to see what temperature the manufacturer recommends, and as long as most of the gloss is gone, give it a wash on a regular cycle. Air dry and avoid direct sunlight.

Unless you have a seriously impressive lip gloss (like Kosas Wet Lip Oil Pumping Treatment Gloss with serious clean beauty staying power), this should do the trick. Otherwise, repeat the above steps and see if a second wash can help remove the stain.

Tips and Tricks to get Rid of Makeup Stains

We get it; the thought of losing one of your most cherished fits is a terrifying thing. Whether it’s lip gloss, foundation, or any other type of makeup causing a stain, follow these tips and tricks to get it out easily.

• Be careful of the materials you’re applying stain removers to. Delicate ones —like silk or wool — can become permanently damaged or discolored, so always check the label first.
• Do a quick spot test of stain remover before going all in. Just in case it discolors the garment, at least it was in an inconspicuous spot.
• Prone to getting products on your best clothes? Consider using some sort of cover while you do your makeup. An old button-up shirt or robe comes on and off easily without ruining your beat.
• Still can’t bear to throw out your fave dress from years ago but hate the massive lip gloss stain on its collar? No worries. A professional cleaner should be able to get the stain out without a fuss.
• Try a clear lip gloss over the top of lipstick for a no-stain guarantee. We love Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment. Bonus? You can use it on most parts of your face.li>

Lip Gloss on Your Clothes? Here’s what to avoid

Just like your cringe-worthy fashion mistakes of the past, there’s no turning back the clock when you get a lip gloss stain. But avoiding these things will make it a lot easier to get the gloss out once it’s there.

• Now is not the time to reach for the scrubbing brush. Rubbing the stain can cause it to spread and become even harder to remove. Gentle is the way to go.
• Don’t put your clothes in the dryer once you finish the cleaning. The high heat can set the lip gloss stain on your clothes.
• Never leave the gloss to sit on the garment too long. The faster you act, the better chance you’ll easily remove it.

Keep your Gloss Where it Looks Best

Don’t let go of your favorite cosmetics, not even that stubborn shiny lip gloss.

Instead, learn the best tips and tricks to remove it from our clothes, since giving up on our beloved lip gloss is simply not an option. With a few simple household products and a little know-how, you can guarantee your gloss stays put — but only on your pout.

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